Advisory Opinions

Join Leon Neyfakh, host of the Slow Burn podcast, as he dives into the chaos of the 2000 election and the landmark Bush v. Gore case. Discover the perplexing butterfly ballot and the various ‘chads’ that left voters scratching their heads. Unpack the electoral implications of the Brooks Brothers riot and the Supreme Court’s controversial intervention. Neyfakh also explores how the independent state legislature theory could shape future elections. This engaging discussion reveals the complexities of election law and the far-reaching effects of that pivotal moment in American democracy.

In a lively discussion at Columbia University, hosts tackle the complexities of gun assembly kits and their regulation under the Gun Control Act. They delve into a gripping death penalty case, examining prosecutorial misconduct and witness credibility. Legal intricacies surrounding the Oklahoma Supreme Court's writing style are critiqued. The conversation also navigates academic freedom, raising questions about ethical boundaries and extreme viewpoints in universities. Finally, they address evolving gun regulations in the context of emerging technologies like 3D printing.

Judge Roy Altman, a federal judge known for his insights on international law, joins the discussion at Duke University. He shares his experiences from trips to Israel and delves into the legal intricacies of warfare, particularly the principle of proportionality and the challenges posed by Hamas' tactics. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas in military decision-making and Israel's efforts to protect civilians. Additionally, they explore the fascinating legal issues surrounding tire chalking and its implications for the Fourth Amendment.

The discussion kicks off with a humorous take on Supreme Court developments, including a notable Texas nuclear case and a controversial death penalty appeal. They dive into Mexico's lawsuit against American gun manufacturers, tackling gun trafficking issues and liability challenges. Discrimination in employment comes into play, reflecting dissonances across legal standards. There's also a fascinating look at the implications of transgender youth rights and parental authority. Lastly, they ponder character in politics, laying bare the tensions of today's polarized landscape.

Kannon Shanmugam, head of Paul-Weiss' Supreme Court practice, passionately defends the judiciary's legitimacy amidst rising criticism. He argues that questioning the Court's role can undermine trust in key institutions. The conversation delves into the dangers of court packing and the allure of term limits, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue on judicial nominations. Shanmugam also highlights the importance of ethical considerations and the implications of public perception on the court's integrity in today's polarized environment.

The discussion kicks off with humorous anecdotes about spilled milk while previewing the Supreme Court's October term. Key topics include the implications of judicial appointments on gender-affirming care and minors' rights. They delve into contentious cases like Glossop v. Oklahoma, exploring the complexities of mental health in death penalty trials. The controversial removal of books from libraries sparks a debate on censorship and free speech. Finally, they tackle the indictment of Mayor Eric Adams, examining the murky waters of political ethics and campaign financing.

Controversy brews around the execution of Marcellus Williams as questions of justice versus murder arise. The case highlights troubling discrepancies between confessions and evidence, prompting a critical look at the complexities of the death penalty. Discussions delve into the broader challenges within the justice system, including the disparity between high-profile cases and those that fade from public interest. The need for reform in sentencing practices and police training also emerges, underscoring America's unique struggles with crime and incarceration.

Sherif Girgis, a Notre Dame law professor and expert on originalism, joins the discussion to unpack his latest findings on legal interpretations. They dive into Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s remarks on international law and the complexities of Israel's military tactics, particularly regarding the ethical implications of cyber warfare. Girgis critiques the inadequacies of traditional judicial approaches while exploring the role of judges in constitutional interpretation. The conversation also touches on recent controversies at Princeton, highlighting challenges in navigating institutional policies.

The hosts dive into their controversial experience near Princeton, including an unexpected speaking ban. They discuss the impact of Trump-appointed judges on the judiciary and the shifting legal landscape. A compelling case of due process violations unfolds, highlighting the struggles of a nursing student wrongfully convicted. They tackle complex civil rights issues for prisoners and explore free speech implications in social issues, along with the contentious nature of academic expression, raising essential questions about justice and rights.

The hosts discuss the irony of elite universities trying to stay politically neutral, especially after an event at Princeton was banned. They dive into the controversial TikTok ban, examining its implications for free speech and national security. A leaked Supreme Court memo reveals concerns about judicial integrity, prompting discussions on transparency. The transformative role of AI in law is highlighted, emphasizing efficiency while advocating for human oversight. The podcast also scrutinizes the evolving dynamics in hiring practices within the legal profession and higher education.